Same with the 60Hz vs 120Hz options. Gamers would most likely all tell you to go 120Hz. But again, at those sizes, its still a grey area. It will definitely make a difference, but enough that you’ll notice or enough that it warrants the added cost? That’s where its into the grey.

For both, LCD vs Plasma, or 60Hz vs 120Hz, I highly recommend you go to a store and use your eyes. Everyone’s visual sensitivities are different. If you can see differences, then go with the one that you think is giving you the best picture (make sure they hook up a game for you if that’s going to be your main use). If they all look the same to you, go for the cheapest.

But do stick with the big name brands. Panasonic, Sony, and Samsung are your main friends. They are the leaders of the pack. But Sharp, LG, and Toshiba also make viable options for your to consider as well. But that’s it, other than those 6, you’re looking at 2nd tier brands that will be a risk. They might work out, but the risk is much greater.

Personally, I would hands down go with a Panasonic Viera plasma for your needs. It will be wicked for gaming and movies. Its the top of the line manufacturer with one of the single best reputations for reliability. Plasma has a near instantaneous response time (0.001ms) and so is flawless in fast motion playback (LCDs are typically in around 4ms – 8ms, the 120Hz can help overcome that, but its not Plasma good).

Plasma haters will claim burn-in. But a modern Plasma doesn’t suffer that anymore. Especially one from Panasonic. Though a cautious person would recommend you still condition a Plasma TV. So that means no gaming for the first 20-50 hours of operation (watch a lot of movies really quickly). And for the first 100-200 hours of operation keep the brightness and contrast cranked down (so probably stay away from games with dark scenes during that time as well, as they’ll be hard to play). But after that, optimize it and know that you’re getting as good as it gets in HDTVs.